Anime swords have captured the hearts of many fans for their unique designs and powerful imagery. They are often the symbol of a character's strength and determination, and their presence in a scene can add a sense of drama and excitement. What is it about anime swords that make them so appealing? Perhaps it is their sleek and intricate designs or the way they are wielded with such grace and skill. Maybe it is the way they are imbued with a sense of history and tradition, or the way they can be used to cut through the toughest of opponents with ease.
So in this article, we will be ranking some of the most iconic swords in anime history, also while taking a closer look at the characters who wield them and the role it plays in their respective series.
5. Samehada (Naruto)
Samehada is a unique sword wielded by the character Kisame Hoshigaki in the anime series Naruto. It is a sentient weapon that feeds on the chakra of its opponents, granting its user enhanced strength and the ability to use water-based Jutsu. The sword is also able to change its shape and size, and can even detach itself from its hilt and fly around on its own. The blade is known to devour chakra as it shreds enemies, and the more chakra it absorbs, the larger it becomes. It can also fuse with its owner.
It was originally owned by the Kaguya clan before it found its way to Kisame Hoshigaki, a member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist, a group of highly skilled and powerful ninjas who wield legendary swords. Kisame is known for his mastery of the sword and his unique fighting style that incorporates his shark-like abilities and his water-based Jutsu.
4. Toyako Bokuto (Gintama)
Gintoki's wooden sword, also known as the "Wooden Blade of Justice," is a weapon that may not look like much, but don't let its humble appearance fool you. This wooden sword may not have a sharp edge or the ability to cut through steel, but it more than makes up for it with power and versatility in the hands of Gintoki.
The origin of Toyako Bokuto is unknown. It has the words "Lake Toya" inscribed on it and Gin supposedly bought it at Lake Toya during a class trip in his youth. And in some cases, Gin claims that the bokuto he wields is a Hoshikudaki, a sword created from a ten-thousand-year-old tree from another planet that cuts through almost anything. But despite its great power, especially in the hands of its wielder, the sword is occasionally seen breaking during more intense fights and does not hold up as well against a sword wielded by an equal or stronger opponent.
3. Elucidator and Dark Repulser (Sword Art Online)
Elucidator and Dark Repulser are a pair of swords wielded by the character Kirito in the anime series Sword Art Online. Elucidator is not a player-made weapon but a rare, high-quality boss drop while Dark Repulser is a one-handed longsword, created by Lisbeth for Kirito out of a Crystallite Ingot, and is known for its sharpness and durability. Kirito can wield them with great skill and precision, and they are powerful enough to defeat high-level monsters.
Kirito is the main protagonist of the series and the wielder of both blades is a skilled and powerful swordsman known for his ability to wield a sword with great skill and precision. He is also known for his ability to dual-wield swords, a rare and difficult skill to master.
2. Zangetsu (Bleach)
Zangetsu is a powerful sword wielded by the main protagonist, Ichigo Kurosaki, in the popular anime series Bleach. The sword is a type of weapon known as a zanpakuto, which is unique to the soul reapers in the Bleach universe and is not just a weapon but also a manifestation of a soul reaper's soul and power.
Ichigo Kurosaki, a high school student with the ability to see ghosts, obtained the sword after unintentionally obtaining the powers of a soul reaper. Zangetsu is not only a formidable weapon in battle but also serves as a guide and mentor to Ichigo throughout his journey as a soul reaper. As Ichigo's spiritual energy grows, so does the sword's power, allowing it to transform and increase in strength. The sword is known for its sharpness and ability to cut through even the toughest of defences. It also grants Ichigo the ability to use powerful techniques such as Getsuga Tensho, a powerful energy blast.
1. Dragon Slayer (Berserk)
Dragon Slayer is a massive sword wielded by the main protagonist, Guts, in the dark fantasy anime series Berserk. The sword is so heavy that only Guts, who possesses immense strength and skill, can wield it. It is capable of cutting through armoured knights and dragons with ease, earning it its name. Guts obtained the sword from his friend, Godo, who forged it when his castle town's sovereign, a king, sent out a proclamation to all of his vassals to forge a sword capable of killing a dragon. The sword is not just a weapon but also a symbol of Guts' unyielding determination and willpower, as it is a reflection of the main protagonist's strength and willpower.
Throughout the series, Guts uses the sword to battle terrifying monsters, demons, and even gods, making it one of the most powerful and iconic swords in anime history. Given the sword's incredible size and weight, the Dragon Slayer functions more like a bladed maul than an actual sword, though Guts is more than capable of using it to cut through various targets. The sheer momentum of Guts swinging it can tear anyone caught in the attack impact into pieces with one swing
Final Thoughts
Anime swords have always been a fan favourite for their unique designs and powerful imagery. Whether it's the sleek and intricate designs or the way they are wielded with grace and skill, these swords have captivated audiences for years. And in this article, we've listed some of the most iconic swords in anime history, along with the characters who wield them and the role they play in their respective series. From Samehada to Elucidator and Dark Repulser, these swords have left a lasting impression on viewers.
So, whether you're a long-time fan or just getting into anime swords, be sure to check out our top picks and let us know your favourite swords in the comments section below.
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